If I'm a Yogi

If I'm a yogi: 

it's the practice itself that brings me deep joy, not seeking anything past the present yoga posture being held, this single breath observed, or the silence brought through repetition of my mantra. If I'm a yogi than it's not so much through self-identification as it is for the pleasure of my practice, the wisdom found in so many ancient texts that still hold meaning to me now. an easiness of motion brought to my body from the asanas held each morning, and perhaps most joyful of all is a peaceful and inspired mind that seems to extend from my sitting meditation. These are all benefits, fruits of my practice, but it's the actual performance of each one that brings me the greatest joy, simply practicing for the vibration of the manta's sound, or the easy glide of motion as my body stretches between postures.

if I'm a yogi -

than it's for the pleasure of my practice alone.

and nothing more. 

no, I can't say there's an end to my seeking, although there was a definite shift of energy from a wish for enlightenment towards a sense of exploration, being filled with curiosity and wonder as to whatever next might unfold. It feels that now I'm being led by grace, offered new avenues to discover what life has in store, and that there is absolutely nothing at all to be achieved, nothing to be earned, that everything arrives completely on its own, exactly in its perfect time. This doesn't deny effort, or that there's any work involved - but that it's the work itself, practice, that offers me enlightenment. 

again, it's a subtle shift...

chop wood, carry water, as they say in Zen. 

if I'm a yogi, it's a label lovingly earned through the pleasure of my practice. Yet it's just one more concept that's easily let go. All there is...is what the present moment holds. And it offers infinite avenues that I'm eager to explore. 

~

Peace, Eric